Senior U.S. officials led by Barbara Leaf arrived in Damascus for the first diplomatic mission to Syria since the fall of Bashar al-Assad. They are expected to meet with members of the HTS rebel group to discuss a transition to an inclusive Syrian government and the fate of missing American citizens. Roger Carstens, the special presidential envoy for hostage affairs, is also part of the delegation. The diplomats will engage with civil society, activists, and Syrians to understand their vision for the future. The Biden administration is under pressure to find Austin Tice, abducted 12 years ago in Syria.
The delegation’s visit follows European diplomats’ visits to Damascus as HTS leader Abu Mohammad al-Jolani calls for lifting international sanctions. HTS, a U.S.-designated terrorist group, is still under sanctions, complicating humanitarian aid efforts. The U.S. is considering removing HTS from the terrorist list but has set conditions for recognizing the Syrian government. The focus is on creating an inclusive government that protects all Syrians’ rights.
Secretary of State Antony Blinken emphasized that finding Austin Tice is a top priority, and the U.S. is working with various actors for information. The delegation’s engagement with HTS has raised concerns, but the U.S. aims to support a stable, non-threatening Syria that does not serve as a base for terrorism. The ultimate goal is to ensure a government that protects the rights of all Syrians, including women and minorities, while preserving critical state institutions and delivering essential services.
Photo credit
www.nbcnews.com